Using paper cups for family picnics and kid’s birthday parties is just so pedestrian. Even though I’m itching to make lots of summer plans including paper cups in their traditional form, there is a large world of crafty possibilities just waiting for the leftover party gear.

With these projects, you’ll find out the sky is the limit when it comes to the humble throw away cup. Crowns (I’ve seen party hats, too), presents, garlands, or piñatas, the list goes on—even beyond what I’ve gathered here. Now all we have to do is find the perfect pattern and color to get the projects flowing.

Paper Cup Gift Boxes
Visit Paper Mash for the tutorial.

Perfect for party favors and those last-minute gifts when you can’t find a box. These Gift Boxes look so extra special – and I love the colors they chose.

Dip Dye Paper Cup Vases
Visit Design*Sponge for the tutorial.

I’m betting the key to the high-end look of these containers is the cups themselves. They used compostable cups from Wasara, which look pretty amazing even when they’re plain.

Water Cooler Cup Star
Visit Lowe’s for the tutorial.

I’ve always loved the old-fashioned cone-shaped cups, and now I have the perfect excuse to get some. I’d love to have a collection of these scattered across the ceiling of my girl’s bedroom.

Paper Cup Garland
Visit Julep for the tutorial.

This garland is more interesting than all the others you’ll find at any party store – especially if you can make it in the same colors.

Painterly Paper Cups
Visit Design*Sponge for the tutorial.

Stuck in a neighborhood with only the ugliest paper cups available to you? No problem, just paint your own. Heck, I’d love to do this technique on lots of inexpensive white dishes too.

Paper Cup Mini Pinatas
Visit Chickabug for the tutorial.

The white cone cups make these feel extra-unique, but they’d work just as well with regular paper cups too. Either way, the kids in your life with love the surprises inside.

Pictured at the top of this post: Paper Cup Crown, visit Estefi Machado for the tutorial.